Audi RS4

Although Audi's RS4 is coming to the end of its life as the Lexus bows in, it was a signifier that Audi has moved onto the same plane as BMW and Mercedes-Benz in terms of performance and involvement, despite the continued use of four-wheel drive.

That quattro system will appeal to drivers wanting all-weather surefootedness in their performance car, though Audi has tweaked the technology to send more torque to the rear wheels, which allows more adjustment of the car's attitude in a corner, in the process endearing the RS4 to keen drivers. The signs are good for the RS4's replacement, as the new Audi A4 has already proven itself to be a decent steer, even in more subdued derivatives.

Monday February 4